Gibbs wants 'Bridge to play sexy rugby

Release date : Friday July 02, 2010
Written by : Russell Davies

ANDREW Gibbs was delighted that he was able to make a late change of plan and return to the Welfare Ground as Newbridge coach.

Gibbs will be in charge of the forwards with Jonathan Hawker, who has also had two spells with ‘Bridge, responsible for the backs.

Yet the pair were happy to be planning for a season in Division Three East before the call came from their old club.

“It happened so suddenly,” said Gibbs, the former flanker who won six caps for Wales................

“Jon and I were meant to be coaching Blaina this season but the opportunity came along and we jumped at it. We have both been associated with the club in the past and are delighted to be back.

“I never managed to come back and play here at the end of my career as I had planned but now I have the next best thing.”

‘Bridge finished fifth last season and, like their Gwent rivals Blackwood and Ebbw Vale, will be looking to be in the running for a return to the top flight.

To do that they will not only have to finish top of the pile but win a play-off, with Bridgend looking a formidable outfit in the west.

UWIC won the One East title last season and Gibbs is looking to mirror the students by playing plenty of running rugby – when appropriate. He said: “We want to play expansive, high tempo rugby but we are also aware that you need a mixture and have to be able to stand up to teams up front, especially when the weather turns.

“Most of the squad from last season are still here and we want to build on what has been done over the last few years.

“Hopefully we will be there or thereabouts and ultimately we want Premiership rugby back at Newbridge.”

Hawker will be registered as a player but the former Bristol and Ebbw centre will hope to focus on his coaching.

(Story from South Wales Argus - written by Chris Kirwan)

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